M. RAMAPPA vs SANGAPPA AND OTHERS

The Supreme Court held that holders of village offices, such as Patels and Shanbhogs, are considered to be in offices of profit under the Government as per Article 191 of the Constitution of India. The Court found that despite their hereditary rights, these individuals are appointed by the Government and work under its supervision, thus making them disqualified for membership in the State Assembly under Section 100(1)(c) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The rejection of their nomination papers by the Returning Officer was upheld.